Just a quick note to the “journalists” at the News of the World – if you’re going to make something up, please just do some basic, rudimentary research first.

Today they’re claiming that Aston Villa are about to make a “shock move” for Wigan’s back up goalkeeper, Mike Pollitt, as cover for the two Brads. In fact, it’s only a short piece, I’ll quote it in full:-

ASTON VILLA are considering a shock move for veteran Wigan keeper Mike Pollitt.

Villa are waiting on Brad Friedel to make a decision on his future and doubts persist over back up Brad Guzan at the highest level. Pollitt, 37, could be offered a short-term deal by Martin O’Neill as experienced cover for the two Americans.

Guzan has been entrusted with cup duties this term and, although he’s helped Villa go all the way to Wembley with some outstanding performances – none more so than at Sunderland – he had a shocker in the 6-4 victory against Blackburn in midweek.

Uh huh. Isn’t that the exact reason we brought Andy Marshall in back in the summer? And please, Guzan has one dodgy game and “doubts persist”?  Friedel is in contract until 2011.

NotW, you fail so hard.